~~Youth and Child Development~~

After School STEM class Junk Drawer Robotics

Students at a local elementary recently learned about science, technology, engineering and math -- all using miscellaneous things from Dr. Deb's junk drawer! From a catapult to a 3D tic-tac-toe game to a robotic arm, the students engineered these items using tape, string, cups, styrofoam, tubing, syringes, rubberbands, washers, and did we say "tape" --- lots of tape! The students learned to sort and identify, draw their plan on paper and experiment for best results. The class met once a week after school for six weeks.

Fun & Educational Kimmel Field Trips

Now scheduling for Pre K through 8th grade

Take your class on an exciting and educational field trip to Kimmel in Nebraska City. For only $5 per youth, your class or youth group will get to experience hands-on learning at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Kimmel Education and Research Center, as well as the Kimmel Orchard. Each field trip will include your selected educational experience led by Dr. Deb Weitzenkamp, a guided tour of the Apple Barn, and a hayrack ride through the orchard (weather permitting).

What is First® Lego® League?

It is MUCH more than playing with legos! The First® Lego® League team members develop teamwork by planning, brainstorming and collaborating. The youth meet after school weekly and their research, presentation and technical skills are put to test at First® Lego® League competitions. Dr. Deb Weitzenkamp, along with volunteer adult coaches, parents and school staff, guide students to prepare for competition.

First® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) was founded by inventor Dean Kamen to inspire young people's interest and participation in science and technology. In 1998 he joined with Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen of LEGO® to create the program, First® Lego® League, for 9 to 14 year olds around the world. Regional competitions will provide an opportunity for area teams to advance to the state competition in February.

For information about youth development programs, contact Dr. Deborah Weitzenkamp at the UNL Kimmel Education and Research Center - 402-873-3166

The UNL Kimmel Education and Research Center represents a unique public-private partnership between the Kimmel Orchard and Vineyard Educational Foundation, Inc. and the University of Nebraska. It is located at 5985 G Road, Nebraska City, Nebraska, next to the historic Apple Barn at Kimmel Orchard and Vineyard, northwest of Nebraska City.

Extension Highlights

UNL Extension's BeefWatch

Check out the latest issue of UNL BeefWatch Newsletter. newsletter, designed to assist Beef producers and professionals. You may subscribe to receive this newsletter in your email and view the latest summaries on beef industry issues at http://Beef.UNL.edu

CropWatch Newsletter

UNL Extension cropping system experts discuss the latest updates on cropping issues in Nebraska such as appearance of Pythium in corn and soybeans, wheat disease updates, and a new UNL climate app. During the growing season, each weeks CropWatch newsletter is posted on Fridays at http://cropwatch.unl.edu/

As a leader in your community, often you are asked to present a program to club meetings, civic groups or professional organizations. Finding information for such a program and then organizing it can be challenging and time consuming. Look no further!

Faculty from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension are providing you research-based, educational program resources free-of-charge. Information in each program is based on research from educational institutions around the world. The programs listed reflect the variety of topics which our clientele cite as issues within their communities. Congratulations on leading your organization to a greater understanding of these priorities! For lessons....

Extension Webcasts

Backyard Farmer View entire episodes or search for answers to your plant, yard, and insect problems. Watch Backyard Farmer live on NET1 April to mid September (Thursday, 7:00 pm CT).

Ag Almanac Audio and video interviews with University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension specialists and educators on topics ranging from crop and livestock production to health and nutrition to lawn and garden care, and more.